[MENTION=137631]Flatballer[/MENTION] I did a RR with a big fat climb in it today, low gear of 38x30 (my normal road bike gear is 39x28). I cannot believe I did this climb 3 years ago with a 39x25, and I am a lot lighter than you are. In these days of 11-speed drivetrains there's no sense in having a 39x25 on a bike you plan to do any climbing with IMO. I switched after last race season and haven't regretted it. I used to say "if you need the 28, you're dropped anyway." I was full of ****. I guess what I'm saying is, get yourself a bigger cassette if at all possible. No shame in easing back, either. Would be sad if you burned out trying to come back too fast!